Compound V, a vital element in Amazon Prime Video's original series, The Boys, plays a crucial role within the show's universe. However, there may be some fans who remain uncertain about its origins and characteristics. The Boys revolves around a vigilant group determined to combat the corruption within Vought International, a powerful corporation that controls a team of genetically enhanced superheroes known as Supes. Vought capitalizes on their Supes' extraordinary abilities while concealing their dark, self-absorbed nature for personal gain.
In The Boys universe, the general belief is that Supes are naturally born with their extraordinary powers. However, the truth is unveiled in season 1, indicating that the introduction of Compound V into one's bloodstream is what grants them these remarkable abilities. It becomes increasingly evident that Compound V serves as both the source of Vought's immense power and its potential downfall. Consequently, Compound V is recognized as the most invaluable substance on the entire planet. It is thus essential to possess a comprehensive understanding of the nature and effects of this extraordinary compound.
How Compound V Works In The Boys
In The Boys, Compound V is a vibrant blue liquid that can be injected into the bloodstream, resulting in mutations. Survivors of the mutations are bestowed with unique powers that differ from person to person. Generally, these powers manifest as physical superhuman abilities, although some individuals acquire powers related to their mental capacities rather than their physicality. The effects of Compound V may take years to manifest in children or infants, whereas in fully grown adults, the effects are typically immediate. The powers granted by Compound V vary considerably, ranging from exceptionally powerful to weak or even ineffective.
The potency of the powers obtained through Compound V is also influenced by the quantity administered. For instance, Homelander, arguably the most formidable Supe ever created, was exposed to an exceedingly high dose of Compound V. Demonstrating his overwhelming power, Homelander has decisively eliminated at least 15 characters in The Boys, earning him an air of invincibility. Another character, Queen Maeve, received a dose of Compound V that was higher than average, resulting in abilities stronger than those possessed by the majority of Supes but still lesser than Homelander's. Conversely, characters like Eagle the Archer, who received smaller doses of Compound V, exhibit weaker abilities.
Compound V Was Created By Frederick Vought - Origin Explained
Compound V, although immensely powerful, is not meant for everyone. Its potency and effectiveness are particularly pronounced in infants and young children, suggesting their greater adaptability to change. However, the precise reasons for this phenomenon remain elusive. Remarkably, the majority of infants and youngsters who receive Compound V not only survive the process but also manifest extraordinary abilities as they mature. In stark contrast, adults face a mere 20% chance of surviving the introduction of Compound V into their bloodstream. As a result, Compound V is primarily administered to children, thereby aiding Vought in perpetuating the misconception that superpowers are innate traits.
During World War II, a Nazi scientist called Frederick Vought formulated a substance known as Compound V. Vought, a prominent geneticist and staunch believer in Nazi ideology, designed this compound specifically for use in the war. The initial testing of Compound V was conducted on unfortunate victims in concentration camps, following Vought's appointment as the Chief Physician of the infamous Dachau concentration camp by Hitler himself. Surprisingly, Vought's first successful subject happened to be his wife, who later became infamous as Stormfront. Both Frederick and Stormfront shared a grand vision of rallying an army of superhumans, known as Supes, to carry out a massive racially driven genocide and conquer the world.
Vought's initial serum, utilized on Stormfront and Soldier Boy, possessed a higher level of purity compared to the modern form of Compound V. As a result, it induced significantly stronger abilities in its recipients. This explains why Stormfront and Soldier Boy possess more formidable capabilities than the majority of Supes. Furthermore, the initial iteration of Compound V could be administered to fully grown adults, yielding far superior outcomes. Notably, Stormfront and Soldier Boy's prolonged lifespans suggest that the original Compound V had an additional longevity-enhancing effect. However, it seems that the production costs of the original Compound V were prohibitively high, leading Vought to develop a cheaper and less potent alternative.
In a crucial turn of events, Frederick Vought defected to the Allies once it became evident that the Nazis were destined for defeat. Accompanying him was the Compound V, which he provided to the American military, ultimately leading to the creation of Soldier Boy. Following the war, Frederick established Vought American, subsequently rebranded as Vought International. Gradually, Vought transformed into a colossal conglomerate, amassing billions of dollars in revenue, all while Frederick himself became an enduring symbol of American patriotism. Throughout its existence, Vought covertly engineered a vast number of Supes, with its involvement in their creation remaining concealed until the events chronicled in The Boys.
The Difference Between Compound V & V24
In The Boys season 3, a new version of Compound V called V24, or Temp V, is introduced. Unlike Compound V, which permanently mutates the user, V24 provides temporary powers that last for 24 hours. Although its development is discontinued after Compound V becomes known to the public, V24 remains a significant aspect of the story. However, the drug has unresolved negative side effects and must be taken multiple times to maintain extended abilities. Unfortunately, after 3-5 doses, V24 can become lethal, often resulting in brain lesions. The differences between V24 and Compound V will have far-reaching consequences for the characters involved.
In The Boys season 3, Billy Butcher discovers that his continuous use of V24 has resulted in the development of numerous brain tumors. Unlike Compound V, which can be fatal during the initial mutation stage but does not cause death once it is accepted by the body, V24 poses a significant health risk when used repeatedly. Additionally, Supes have the ability to enhance their powers temporarily by taking extra doses of Compound V, similar to a steroid-like effect. However, these additional doses come with milder side effects compared to those caused by the prolonged use of V24.
